Audi India started 2020 with the introduction of two new models – the Q8 and the A8 L. Then, due to obvious reasons, it entered a quiet phase with just three models complying the stricter BS6 (Bharat Stage 6) emission norms. With things slowly getting back on track, the company has now introduced its fourth offering – the RS 7 Sportback. Courtesy of steep import duties on CBUs (Completely Built Units), the go-fast car comes with an eye-watering price tag of Rs 1.94 crore.

Admittedly, it won’t be a volume driver for Audi in India. But it surely will be the most exciting offering. Under the bonnet is a 4.0-litre V8 engine, boosted by two turbocharges. The result is 591bhp/800Nm. Audi’s Quattro all-wheel-drive system and an 8-speed automatic transmission come into play to harness and feed the oomph to the wheels. The RS 7 Sportback can hit 100kmph from a standstill in 3.6 seconds and reach an electronically-limited top speed of 250kmph. With the Dynamic and Dynamic Plus packages, that last figure goes up to 280kmph and 305kmph, respectively.

Audi has also equipped the powertrain with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system which, as we know, aids in fuel savings and acceleration. Audi claims that the added tech can help save up to 0.8 litres of fuel every 100km. If the driver takes releases the throttle at speeds ranging between 55kmph and 160kmph, the car will either recover energy for the mild-hybrid system or coast with the engine off. Another feature that helps keep the mileage figure acceptable is the cylinder-on-demand system, which can switch half the cylinders off at low and medium engine loads.

Features? The RS 7 Sportback gets them all. Well, almost! To help tame the oomph, Audi has equipped it with RS-spec suspension and brakes, all-wheel-steering and a sports differential. Indoors, the list of gizmos includes a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, powered and ventilated seats, four-zone climate control and multiple drive modes. Features such as 21-inch alloy wheels, LED headlamps and a powered tailgate are also on offer.

In India, the Audi RS 7 Sportback rivals the likes of the BMW 8 Series Gran Coupe, Porsche Panamera and the Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S 4-Door Coupe. One could even include the BMW M5 Competition in the mix. Which one would be your choice?